Pope Francis’s body has been transported to Saint Peter’s Basilica for three days of public viewing.
The Argentinian pontiff’s coffin was carried to the Vatican City main entrance on Wednesday morning, surrounded by dozens of cardinals and Swiss Guards, and was carried out of the Casa Santa Marta residence.
In St. Peter’s Square, which leads to the basilica, masses of the Catholic faithful pay their respects to Francis, who is renowned for his modesty, concern for the poor, and insistent prayers for peace.
According to Jonah Hull from Vatican City, “A service is ongoing” inside the basilica. The faithful are eagerly anticipating a little later when they can file past [Francis’] coffin. ”
Prior to Francis’ funeral on Saturday, the public will have three days to witness his body lying in the ground. The basilica will remain open through midnight on Wednesday and Thursday, with a 7-pm [17:00 GMT] daytime public mourning.
As the church choir sung the Litany of the Saints hymn, Cardinal Kevin Farrell, who is currently in charge of the Vatican until a new pope is elected, led the procession.
Francis’ casket is positioned on the main altar of the 16th-century basilica, facing the pews, rather than an elevated bier like was used to depict previous popes.
Italian police have increased security for the funeral and viewing and have conducted foot and horse patrols around the Vatican, where pilgrims continued to go to Francis’ inauguration in December. Through St. Peter’s Holy Door, the faithful receive indulgences as a means of assisting in the forgiveness of sins.
Pope Francis is a great pastor and friend to all of us, according to Micale Sales, who is from Brazil and visits St. Peter’s Basilica.
According to Australian Amit Kukreja, he said, “There shouldn’t be any violence, there should be peace around the world.”
Numerous world leaders will attend the funeral, which will take place on Saturday at 10 am [8:00 GMT] in St Peter’s Square, including US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
This week, cardinals will hold more meetings to discuss how to manage the Catholic Church as world leaders and the faithful mourn his passing.
Our leader has been lost, it seems.
The first Latin American pontiff of history charmed the world with his modesty and concern for the poor, but his criticism of capitalism and climate change alienated many conservatives. In St. Peter’s Square, he last made an Easter salute and popemobile tour through a cheering crowd.
He overcame his reservations about navigating the square, which was reportedly filled with 50,000 people, and thanked him for greeting the crowd. The following morning, he passed away.
Source: Aljazeera
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